Seeing extra teeth in a child’s mouth can be confusing and worrying for parents. Many are unsure whether this is normal, if it will affect permanent teeth, or if treatment is required. Extra teeth in children are a dental condition known as hyperdontia. While it is not very common, early diagnosis and proper care can prevent long-term dental problems.
Parents in and around Panchkula often notice this condition during the stage when milk teeth and permanent teeth are present together. Understanding the condition early helps in planning the right treatment at the right time.
What Are Extra Teeth (Hyperdontia)?
Hyperdontia is a condition in which more teeth develop than the normal number. Children usually have 20 milk teeth, and adults have 32 permanent teeth. In hyperdontia, one or more additional teeth may develop along with the normal teeth.
These extra teeth may:
- Erupt fully into the mouth
- Appear partially
- Remain hidden under the gums
How Common Is Hyperdontia in Children?
Hyperdontia is uncommon but is seen more often:
- In boys than in girls
- In the upper jaw compared to the lower jaw
- Near the front teeth, especially between the two upper front teeth
Many cases are detected during routine dental checkups or dental X-rays.
Causes of Extra Teeth in Children
Genetic Factors
Hyperdontia often runs in families. If parents or close relatives had extra teeth, children may have a higher chance of developing them.
Developmental Changes
Sometimes, the tissue responsible for tooth formation becomes overactive during jaw development, leading to extra teeth.
Associated Conditions
In rare cases, hyperdontia may be linked with certain genetic or developmental conditions. However, most children with extra teeth are otherwise healthy.
Symptoms of Extra Teeth in Children
Some children may not show any symptoms initially. Others may experience:
- Delay in eruption of permanent teeth
- Crowding or overlapping teeth
- Crooked or misaligned teeth
- Difficulty in chewing or speaking
- Unusual gaps or spacing
- Gum swelling or discomfort
Parents often notice changes in tooth alignment before pain develops.
Types of Extra Teeth in Children
Mesiodens
The most common type. These extra teeth appear between the two upper front teeth.
Supplemental Teeth
These extra teeth look similar to normal teeth and erupt alongside them.
Impacted Extra Teeth
These teeth remain trapped under the gums and are usually detected through X.
How Are Extra Teeth Diagnosed?
Dentists usually diagnose hyperdontia through:
- Clinical examination
- Dental X-rays to identify hidden extra teeth
- Monitoring tooth eruption patterns over time
In Panchkula, many cases are detected during routine pediatric dental visits, often before parents notice visible problems.
Treatment Options for Hyperdontia in Children
Treatment depends on the number, position, and effect of the extra teeth.
Observation
If extra teeth are not causing problems, dentists may recommend regular monitoring.
Removal of Extra Teeth
Removal is advised if extra teeth block permanent teeth, cause crowding, or affect alignment.
Orthodontic Treatment
Braces or aligners may be required if extra teeth have already disturbed tooth alignment.
Parents seeking hyperdontia treatment in Panchkula are often advised to focus on early intervention, as treatment during growth years usually leads to better outcomes.
What Happens If Extra Teeth Are Left Untreated?
Ignoring hyperdontia can lead to:
- Permanent tooth misalignment
- Crowding and bite issues
- Delayed eruption of permanent teeth
- Higher risk of cavities
- Speech and chewing difficulties
Early care helps avoid these complications.
Dental Care for Hyperdontia at Dr. Sanjay Kalra Dental Clinic
At Dr. Sanjay Kalra Multispeciality Dental Clinic, children with extra teeth are evaluated using a careful and child-friendly approach. The focus is on jaw growth, eruption patterns, and deciding whether immediate treatment or monitored observation is best.
Parents often search for the best hyperdontia treatment in Panchkula, but accurate diagnosis and correct treatment planning are far more important than labels. Early professional guidance helps prevent long-term alignment and eruption problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hyperdontia painful for children?
Usually no. Pain occurs only if extra teeth cause pressure, infection, or crowding.
Can extra teeth fall out on their own?
Some extra milk teeth may fall out, but permanent extra teeth usually require dental evaluation.
At what age is hyperdontia detected?
It is commonly detected between the ages of 6 and 12 years.
Does every child with extra teeth need treatment?
Not always. Treatment depends on whether the extra teeth affect normal dental development.
Conclusion
Extra teeth in children, also known as hyperdontia, may appear harmless at first, but they can affect permanent tooth development if ignored. Regular dental checkups and early diagnosis play a key role in preventing long-term complications.
For parents in Panchkula, timely consultation with an experienced dental team helps ensure healthy jaw development and confident smiles as children grow.